Translation guide
The term 'national character' refers to the distinctive cultural, social, and psychological traits attributed to a nation's people. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through several terms that emphasize different aspects, such as ethnic identity, national spirit, or cultural uniqueness.
To refer to the collective personality, customs, or characteristics of a nation's people.
The most common and neutral term for 'national character', referring to the typical traits, behaviors, and mentality of a nation's people.
What do you think about the national character of the Japanese people?
To understand the national character of that country, it is necessary to study its history.
Refers to the ethnic or racial character of a people, often used in discussions of cultural identity and heritage.
The ethnic character of this region was formed over a long history.
A somewhat literary term for the character or nature of a country, often implying its traditions, customs, and national identity.
It is important to preserve Japan's national character.
To emphasize the collective spirit, morale, or ideological character of a nation.
To discuss the distinct identity or uniqueness of a nation, often in contrast to others.
A loanword phrase meaning 'national identity', commonly used in academic and social discussions.
National identity is being questioned in the midst of globalization.
Means 'uniqueness' or 'originality', often used to describe the distinctive character of a nation's culture or people.
国民性 (kokuminsei) refers to the character of a nation's citizens, often in a modern state context. 民族性 (minzokusei) emphasizes ethnic or racial traits and may be used for groups without a nation-state. Use 国民性 for general discussions of national traits; use 民族性 when focusing on ethnic identity.
The English phrase 'national character' can sometimes be translated literally as 国家的性格 (kokkateki seikaku), but this is unnatural. Stick to the terms listed above.
Literally 'ethnic spirit', this term is used in discussions of national identity and collective psyche, sometimes with nationalistic overtones.
Some people preach the importance of national character (ethnic spirit).
日本文化の独自性を強調する。
Emphasize the uniqueness (national character) of Japanese culture.